Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present application includes a housing accommodating a heater module and a cartridge, and a control portion equipped inside the housing, wherein the heater module includes a first structure having at least a portion of an area pressurized by coupling with the cartridge, and a second structure electrically connected to the at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge, and the housing includes a third structure connected to the control portion and connected to the first structure and the second structure of the heater module, wherein the heater module is electrically connected to the control portion through the third structure if the heater module is coupled to the housing and the cartridge is coupled to the heater module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a technique for communicating with a heater module in an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating devices can have a structure that generates aerosols by heating liquid or solid substances for users to inhale. In particular, various technologies are currently being developed to improve the efficiency and convenience of aerosol generating devices, and replaceable cartridges and heater modules have recently been proposed.

[0003] This system offers advantages to users in terms of maintenance and hygiene, and can extend the life of the device by easily replacing the heater module or cartridge.

[0004] However, existing aerosol generating devices detect the presence of cartridges by supplying power to a heater. This method has the following problem: if the cartridge is not installed correctly or the communication connection between the heater module and the aerosol generating device is unstable, cartridge identification may fail. This instability not only reduces device performance but also negatively impacts the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to address the above-mentioned problems. Its purpose is to provide a structure that establishes a communication connection by combining a smoke cartridge, a heater module, and an aerosol generating device, thereby collecting information from the heater module.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other problems not mentioned herein.

[0007] Technical solution An aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing housing housing a heater module and a cartridge; and a control unit disposed inside the housing, wherein the heater module may include: a first structure, wherein at least a portion of the first structure is pressurized by connection with the cartridge if the cartridge is attached to the heater module; and a second structure configured to be electrically connected to the at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge; the housing may include: a third structure configured to be connected to the control unit and to the first and second structures of the heater module, wherein if the heater module is attached to the housing and the cartridge is attached to the heater module, the heater module is electrically connected to the control unit through the third structure.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heater module, which is separable from the housing of a cartridge or aerosol generating device, may include: a memory for storing information related to the heater module; a first structure for pressurizing at least a portion of the first structure by means of engagement with the cartridge; and a second structure configured to be electrically connected to the at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge, wherein if the heater module is engaged with the housing of the cartridge and the aerosol generating device, a control unit inside the housing is electrically connected to the memory.

[0009] Technical effect According to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication connection between the heater module and the aerosol generating device is achieved by combining the cartridge with the aerosol generating device, thereby enabling the collection of information not only on whether the cartridge is combined, but also on the heater module.

[0010] Furthermore, with the integration of the cartridge and the aerosol generating device, the heater module is heated, thereby preventing malfunction of the aerosol generating device.

[0011] The technical effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can clearly understand other effects not mentioned through the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figures 4 to 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the communication connection process of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the communication connection process of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0018] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0019] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0020] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0021] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0022] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0023] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one stored instructions from the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between semi-permanent and temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0024] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. The x-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and / or heaters 18 and 24. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, certain components may be omitted. Figure 1 The shown components may include some of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements may be added.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit 13 may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing water immersion in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0028] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which heaters 18 and 24 are heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, or the heaters 18 and 24 themselves may function as temperature sensors. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance of heater 18. The impedance of heater 18 may be correlated with the temperature of heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0029] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to temperature changes in the heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heaters 18 and 24, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heaters 18 and 24 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0030] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of heaters 18 and 24 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0031] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to a surface of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power protection circuit (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0033] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0034] As an example, the suction sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1, and the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the internal pressure. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow channel. The suction sensor may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1 corresponding to the gas flow channel.

[0035] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow channel, the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), heaters 18, 24, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0036] As another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the suction sensor can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the suction sensor can output both a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the suction sensor. In this case, the control unit 12 can receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0037] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a cap sensor or capacitive sensor. When a user performs suction, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thereby potentially changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0038] The suction sensor is not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by a variety of sensors used to sense a user's suction.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor may be disposed around the periphery of the insertion space. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor may also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0040] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit 12 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0041] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may be generated around the coil through which the current flows when the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, an inductive heating element (SUS) may also be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article). Even in this case, the magnetic field around the coil may change based on the insertion or removal of the heating element or the like in the insertion space, and the control unit 12 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the current characteristics of the inductive sensor.

[0042] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to sense the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch, etc., for sensing pressure generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0043] According to one embodiment, a reuse sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. As an example, the reuse sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generating article. If a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer casing of the aerosol-generating article may change due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical characteristics (e.g., wavelength of light) of the color of the outer casing based on the light reflected from it. If a color change is detected in a portion of the outer casing, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0044] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that the signal level falls into according to a lookup table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0046] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., packaging component) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the illuminated light. The control unit 12 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0047] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. Depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0048] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging and / or interior (e.g., the dielectric portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space includes a conductor, the characteristics of the current sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0049] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented using various sensors for sensing whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or for sensing the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the cap sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. If the cap is installed in or removed from the housing, the cap sensing sensor can output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the control unit 12 can sense the installation or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0053] According to one embodiment, in addition to the sensors described above, the sensor unit 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System (GPS)), or a proximity sensor. Since a person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heaters 18 and 24, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cover, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., abnormal object detected). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display can also be used as an input unit 15. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The power source 11 may include one or more batteries. The power source 11 can supply power to heat the heaters 18 and 24. Furthermore, the power source 11 can supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source 11 can be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, a removable battery). The removable battery can be installed in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, or it can be removed from the battery housing. The removable battery can be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0056] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 receive power from power source 11, thereby enabling them to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge heater 24 for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0057] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be resistance heaters. For example, resistance heaters can include resistive materials such as metals or metal alloys like titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. Resistance heaters can be implemented using metal heating wires, metal heating plates with conductive tracks, or ceramic heating elements.

[0058] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be induction heating heaters. For example, an induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) that heats up by a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through an induction coil can generate a magnetic field in the induction coil. The generated magnetic field can pass through the heater and can generate eddy currents in the induction heating element. Based on the generation of eddy currents, the induction heating element can be heated. According to one embodiment, the induction heating element may also be included inside an aerosol generating article (e.g., a medium section). In this case, the induction heating element included inside the aerosol generating article can also be heated by an induction coil.

[0059] Heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples above, and may include various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating aerosol generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or may be used in place of them.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit 15 may include a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the control unit 12 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card microtype, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit 16 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the entire operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the control unit may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the power supply 11 to supply power to heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 sensed by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 17.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18 and 24 and the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) for converting the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) for converting the power supplied to the induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter can be implemented using a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can regulate the current and / or voltage supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID) methods. For example, the control unit 12 can use PWM to supply current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature as the control objective based on a temperature curve. The control unit 12 can use PID to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the derivative value of the difference over time.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power as a control objective based on the power curve. Over time, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 to correspond to the preset target power.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect user suction by sensing the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can use a PID control method to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heaters 18 and 24, etc. Therefore, during the PID power control, the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may change. The control unit 12 can detect user suction based on the controlled power change.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeding a preset limit temperature, so as to reduce the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can use a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine the temperature of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11 (e.g., discharging). The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current detection values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article relative to the insertion space. For example, if the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24. If the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an over-humidity state by using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article has been reused. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, if the cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the cartridge is in a separated state, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or prevent the supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. In the case that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the e-cigarette cartridge is available. For example, if the control unit 12 determines, based on data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the e-cigarette cartridge, it can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum time or if the total electrical power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the user's suction. For example, the control unit 12 can use a suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine whether suction has occurred and / or the intensity of suction. If the number of suctions has reached a preset maximum number of suctions and / or no suction is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When suction is sensed, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or its type. For example, the control unit 12 can use a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type. As an example, if the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be counterfeit, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be genuine, the control unit 12 can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 in different ways depending on the type of aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, if the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or first cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a first temperature curve (or first power curve). If the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or second cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a second temperature curve (or second power curve).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13. For example, if the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, starting heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing suction, ending suction, sensing overheating of heaters 18 and 24, sensing overvoltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, ending heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharging of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. For example, the event history may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, if the predetermined event is the sensing of overheating of heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, the current flowing in heaters 18 and 24, etc.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the communication unit 16 to form a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0084] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0086] According to one embodiment, if a location search request for the aerosol generating device 1 is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0087] According to one embodiment, if firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the detection values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0089] Although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may disconnect the power supply 11 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging. The aerosol generating device 1 may also include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0090] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The heater 18 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0091] The cartridge mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. Additionally, the cartridge may include a storage section for containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery member for impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery member or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery member. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0092] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, and / or a sensor unit 13. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the constituent elements of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 are not limited to those described herein. Figure 2 The constituent elements shown may be partially omitted, or new constituent elements may be added. In the following figures, the omissions and... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may include a structure on one side for inserting or mounting the cartridge 19. In this case, the cartridge 19 can be detachably coupled to the housing 10.

[0094] Although not shown, the housing 10 and / or cartridge 19 may include a mouthpiece. The user can hold the mouthpiece in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may include a chamber C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance. The chamber C0 may contain the aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances.

[0096] According to one embodiment, a liquid delivery member 25 impregnated with (containing) aerosol-generating material may be included in the cartridge 19. For example, the liquid delivery member 25 may be impregnated with aerosol-generating material supplied from chamber C0. The liquid delivery member 25 may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a liquid delivery member. In this case, at least a portion of the first liquid delivery member of the cartridge 19 may be in contact with at least a portion of the second liquid delivery member of the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the first and second liquid delivery members may be implemented in different forms. For example, the first liquid delivery member may include cotton fiber, and the second liquid delivery member may include porous ceramic. Alternatively, the cartridge 19 may not include a liquid delivery member, and the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge 19 may be transferred to the liquid delivery member of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0097] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for airflow can be provided in the housing 10 and / or the smoke cartridge 19.

[0098] For example, the housing 1 may include a structure that allows external air to flow into the interior of the housing 10 when the cartridge 19 is attached. As an example, an air inlet allowing external air to flow into the interior of the housing 10 may be formed on one side surface of the aerosol housing 10. The air inlet may also be formed on the lower end surface of the housing 10. External air flowing into the interior of the housing 10 through the air inlet can pass through the cartridge 19 and then flow towards the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN. External air flowing in through this air inlet can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0099] For example, an airflow channel CN ​​may be included in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​can connect the chamber (e.g., atomizing chamber) where the cartridge heater 24 or liquid delivery member 25 is disposed to the housing 10 and / or the exterior of the cartridge 19. More specifically, one end of the airflow channel CN ​​may open into the chamber (e.g., atomizing chamber) where the cartridge heater 24 or liquid delivery member 25 is disposed, and the other end may communicate with a mouthpiece. The airflow channel CN ​​may extend lengthwise along the length of the cartridge 19 on one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​may also pass through the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19 and extend lengthwise along the length of the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​may also communicate with a mouthpiece separately disposed in the housing 10.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 can heat the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge 19. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater. As an example, the resistance heater may include a resistive material and can be heated as an electric current flows through it. As another example, for an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include an induction coil (not shown) around the periphery of the induction heater. The induction heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) and can generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater 24 can be formed in a coil shape that surrounds (or wraps around) the cartridge 19 and / or the liquid delivery member included in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or in a shape that contacts one side of the liquid delivery member (e.g., a patterned shape).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge 19. When the cartridge 19 is detachable from the housing 10, the cartridge heater 24 may be detached from the aerosol generating device 1 together with the cartridge 19. Unlike the case shown in the figures, the cartridge heater 24 may be included within the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may be included inside the housing 10. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may be implemented as being detachable from the housing 10 separately (i.e., independently) from the cartridge 19. In other words, the cartridge heater 24 may or may not be detachable from the housing 10, regardless of whether the cartridge 19 is detached from the housing 10.

[0102] According to one embodiment, an aerosol can be generated based on the heating of the cartridge heater 24. As the liquid delivery member 25 is heated by the cartridge heater 24, an aerosol can be generated. For example, as the aerosol-generating material impregnated in the liquid delivery member 25 is heated by the cartridge heater 24, vapor can be generated from the aerosol-generating material, and as the generated vapor mixes with external air flowing into the cartridge 19, an aerosol can be generated. The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 can be inhaled into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., housing 10). The cartridge 19 may be configured such that the user cannot detach it from the aerosol generating device 1. Even in this case, the cartridge 19 and / or the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one liquid delivery member 25, which is heated based on the cartridge heater 24 included in the aerosol generating device 1 or the cartridge 19 to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0104] The following figures illustrate the communication connection between the heater module 200 and the aerosol generating device 1.

[0105] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 3 According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a smoke cartridge 100, a heater module 200 for the aerosol generating device, and a housing 300 for the aerosol generating device.

[0107] Figure 3 The shown smoke cartridge 100 can be separated from the heater module 200 or the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1, and can include Figure 2 It constitutes at least a portion of the smoke cartridge 19.

[0108] The aerosol generating substance can be stored inside the cartridge 100, and the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge 100 can be supplied to the heater module 200 arranged at the lower end of the cartridge 100 (e.g., the part facing the -z direction).

[0109] The cartridge 100 may include a mouthpiece 100m for supplying aerosol to a user. For example, the mouthpiece 100m may be connected or fluidly connected to the interior of the heater module 200 and the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1, and the aerosol generated inside the heater module 200 may be discharged to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1 through the mouthpiece 100m. At this time, the user can bring their mouth to the mouthpiece 100m and inhale the aerosol discharged to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0110] Figure 3 The heater module 200 can be separated from the housing 300 of the cartridge 100 or aerosol generating device, and may include Figure 2 It constitutes at least a portion of the smoke cartridge 19.

[0111] The heater module 200 can be located between the cartridge 100 and the housing 300, and can perform the function of converting the phase of the aerosol generating substance into a gas phase to generate aerosol.

[0112] The heater module 200 may include a built-in memory 230. When the smoke cartridge 100 and the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1 are all connected to the heater module 200, a communication connection is established between the heater module 200 and the housing 300, so that the information of the heater module 200 can be transmitted to the control unit 12 of the housing 300.

[0113] The heater module 200 can generate aerosols by heating the aerosol generating material received from the cartridge 100. For example, the heater module 200 can generate vapor from the aerosol generating material by heating it, and the generated vapor can mix with external air flowing into the heater module 200 from the outside. Thus, aerosols can be generated. In this disclosure, "aerosol" can refer to particles generated by mixing the vapor generated by heating the aerosol generating material with air, and this term can be used in the same sense below.

[0114] The heater module 200 may be configured to include at least a heater 24 and a liquid delivery component 25.

[0115] The housing 300 may be located at the lower end of the heater module 200 (e.g., the portion facing the -z direction) and may support the heater module 200. Components for operating the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be arranged inside the housing 300. For example, the housing 300 of the aerosol generating apparatus may include... Figure 1 It is at least a part of the composition.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a cover 310 for protecting the constituent elements of the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0117] The cover 310 can be arranged to surround at least one area of ​​the cartridge 100, heater module 200, and housing 300 to fix the positions of the cartridge 100, heater module 200, and housing 300, and to protect the cartridge 100, heater module 200, and housing 300 from external impacts or foreign matter ingress. The cover 310 can be integrally formed with the housing 300, or it can be detachably attached to the housing 300.

[0118] Figures 4 to 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the communication connection process of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0119] Reference Figure 4 , showed Figure 3 The cartridge 100, heater module 200, and housing 300 are separated from each other. Therefore, in... Figure 4 In this case, the communication line is cut off, causing the communication function to be inactive.

[0120] The cartridge 100 can be detachably coupled to the heater module 200. According to one embodiment, the cartridge 100 may include a pressurizing portion 110 projecting toward the coupling direction with the heater module 200 to pressurize at least a portion of the heater module 200.

[0121] The heater module 200 can be detachably coupled to the housing 300 or the cartridge 100. According to one embodiment, the heater module 200 may include a first structure that pressurizes at least a portion of its area by coupling with the cartridge 100, and a second structure electrically connected to at least a portion of the pressurized first structure.

[0122] Specifically, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the heater module 200 includes a first structure and a second structure, which are responsible for the physical connection and electrical connection between the cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300.

[0123] The first structure is a component that is physically pressurized when combined with the cartridge 100, and can serve to initiate electrical connection when combined with the cartridge. According to one embodiment, the first structure may include at least one of a first contact terminal 210, a first communication terminal T2, and a first connection portion 215.

[0124] The first contact terminal 210 may be a terminal that is physically pressurized by the pressurizing part 110 of the cartridge 100. If the cartridge 100 is attached to the heater module 200, the first contact terminal 210 may move or bend elastically inside the heater module 200 to be electrically connected to the second structure.

[0125] The first communication terminal T2 may be included in the first structure and may be a terminal for transmitting electrical signals for communication connection with the housing 300. When the first contact terminal 210 is pressurized, it can be electrically connected to the second communication terminal T6 of the housing 300 through the first communication terminal T2, thereby establishing communication.

[0126] The first connecting portion 215 is a component that electrically connects the first contact terminal 210 to the first communication terminal T2, and it can be made of a conductive material and be of a predetermined length. The first connecting portion 215 can be elastic or be configured as an electrical wire.

[0127] The second structure can be responsible for transmitting electrical signals and power inside the heater module 200, and can also be electrically connected to the first structure to manage the information or power flow of the heater module 200. According to one embodiment, the second structure may include at least one of a second contact terminal 220, a memory 230, a second connection portion 235, and a first ground terminal T3.

[0128] The second contact terminal 220 may be a terminal electrically connected to the first contact terminal 210 of the first structure. If the first structure is pressurized, the second contact terminal 220 may be electrically connected to enable communication or power flow within the heater module 200.

[0129] The memory 230 may be included in the second structure, but is not limited thereto; it may also be included in the first structure. Information related to the heater module 200 (e.g., electrical characteristics, heater status, etc.) may be stored in the memory 230.

[0130] The second connection portion 235 is a component that connects the second contact terminal 220 or the memory 230 to the first ground terminal T3, enabling the connection of electrical signals and power flow. The second connection portion 235 may be elastic or configured in the form of an electrical wire, and can establish an electrical connection while moving as the first structure is pressurized.

[0131] The heater module 200 may also include one or more power terminals T1 and T4 for power transmission. The power terminals T1 and T4 of the heater module may contact and be electrically connected to the power terminals T5 and T8 of the housing 300 at their opposite positions. Thus, the heater module 200 can receive power from the power supply 11 of the housing 300.

[0132] As described above, the heater module 200, which includes at least the first structure and the second structure, can be combined with the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the housing 300 may include a third structure that contacts and is electrically connected to the first and second structures of the heater module 200.

[0134] The third structure may be installed in the housing 300 and may include at least one of more than one power terminal T5, T8, second communication terminal T6 and second grounding terminal T8.

[0135] exist Figure 4 In this configuration, a communication connection between the heater module 200 and the housing 300 can be established by combining the smoke cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300. The following will explain... Figures 5 to 6 Let's explain the contents of this communication connection in more detail.

[0136] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 The heater module 200 moves along the Z-axis and is engaged with the housing 300. For example, the heater module 200 may be guided by the cover 310 to prevent detachment and engaged in a manner that allows it to be inserted into the housing 300, but is not limited thereto.

[0137] Reference Figure 5The heater module 200 can be combined with the housing 300, such that the power terminals T1 and T4 of the heater module 200 can contact the power terminals T5 and T8 of the housing 300, respectively. The first communication terminal T2 of the heater module 200 can contact the second communication terminal T6 of the housing 300. The first grounding terminal T3 of the heater module 200 can contact the second grounding terminal T7 of the housing 300.

[0138] exist Figure 5 In the process, the heater module 200 has been integrated into the housing 300, but since the first structure and the second structure of the heater module 200 are not electrically connected, the communication connection between the heater module 200 and the housing 300 is not established.

[0139] In other words, communication between the heater module 200 and the housing 300 is not fully established when the cartridge 100 is not attached. Although the heater module 200 is electrically connected to the housing 300, the communication line can only be activated when the cartridge 100 is attached.

[0140] In detail, when only the heater module 200 and the housing 300 are combined, the circuit of the first structure of the heater module 200 is connected to the circuit of the third structure inside the housing 300, and the circuit of the second structure of the heater module 200 is connected to the circuit of the third structure inside the housing 300. However, the circuits of the first and second structures of the heater module 200 are in an open circuit state, thus constituting a communication connection between the heater module 200 and the control unit 12 that is not established.

[0141] According to one embodiment, when the heater module 200 is combined with the housing 300, the power terminals T1 and T4 of the heater module 200 are connected to the power terminals T5 and T8 inside the housing 300, regardless of the combination between the cartridge 100 and the heater module 200. In this case, only when the cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300 are all combined can the control unit 12 control the power supply 11 to transmit power from the power supply 11 to the heater module 200.

[0142] In contrast, similar to the communication connection according to embodiments of the present invention, the power connection circuit between the cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300 can also be configured such that power is transmitted only when all three components are connected. In this case, a closed circuit for power connection cannot be formed solely by connecting the heater module 200 and the housing 300, therefore power is not transmitted between the heater module 200 and the housing 300.

[0143] Figure 6 This shows the state in which the smoke cartridge 100 is attached to the heater module 200.

[0144] Reference Figure 6 As the cartridge 100 is attached to the heater module 200, the pressurizing portion 110 of the cartridge 100 can pressurize at least a portion of the first structure of the heater module 200. For example, the pressurizing portion 110 can pressurize the first contact terminal 210 of the heater module 200.

[0145] Due to this pressurization, the first contact terminal 210 moves inside the heater module 200, thereby electrically connecting with the second contact terminal 220. Simultaneously, the first communication terminal T2 contacts the second communication terminal T6 of the housing. Thus, communication between the heater module 200 and the housing 300 is fully established, and the information stored in the memory 230 is transmitted to the control unit 12 of the housing.

[0146] The pressurized first contact terminal 210 can move inside the heater module 200 along the Z-axis direction to contact and electrically connect with the second contact terminal 220. In this case, although not shown, the first connecting portion 215 can also move with the movement of the first contact terminal 210, or can be bent by a predetermined elastic force.

[0147] The second contact terminal 220 can be electrically connected to the memory 230, and the memory 230 can be connected to the second connection portion 235. The second connection portion 235 can electrically connect the second contact terminal 220 or the memory 230 to the first ground terminal T3.

[0148] Although the memory 230 is shown as being included in the second structure of the heater module 200, it is not limited thereto. For example, the memory 230 may be located in any region of the first structure.

[0149] The first communication terminal T2 can be electrically connected to at least a portion of the first structure of the heater module 200 and the housing 300. For example, the first communication terminal T2 can be electrically connected to the first connection portion 215 and can contact the second communication terminal T6 of the housing 300 for electrical connection.

[0150] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first structure of the heater module 200 can be moved toward the inside of the heater module 200 by means of the pressurizing part 110 of the smoke cartridge 100, so that the first structure can be electrically connected to the second structure.

[0151] For example, the first contact terminal 210 of the first structure can be moved by the pressure part 110 to contact the second contact terminal 220 of the second structure.

[0152] With the heater module 200 and housing 300 combined, such as Figure 6 As shown, by further combining the smoke cartridge 100, a closed circuit based on the first structure, the second structure, and the third structure can be generated.

[0153] Specifically, when the heater module 200, the cartridge 100, and the housing 300 are all combined, the circuits of the first structure of the heater module 200, the circuits of the second structure of the heater module 200, and the circuits of the third structure inside the housing 300 are connected to form a closed circuit, thereby establishing a communication connection between the heater module 200 or the memory 230 of the heater module 200 and the control unit 12.

[0154] For example, with the combination of the cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300, a closed circuit can be formed, consisting of a first contact terminal 210, a first connection portion 215, a second contact terminal 220, a memory 230, a first communication terminal T2, a second communication terminal T6, a first ground terminal T3, and a second ground terminal T7. This closed circuit can be used to establish a communication connection between the heater module 200 and the housing 300.

[0155] Furthermore, the first contact terminal 210, the first connecting portion 215, the second contact terminal 220, the first communication terminal T2, the second communication terminal T6, the first grounding terminal T3, and the second grounding terminal T7 can be made of conductive metal or conductive wire.

[0156] If a communication connection is established, information related to the heater module 200 can be transferred from the memory 230 included in the heater module 200 to the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, information such as the type and electrical characteristics of the heater module 200 can be transferred to the control unit 12 of the housing 300, thereby enabling the control unit 12 to identify and confirm the heater module 200.

[0157] According to one embodiment, when a communication connection is established between the heater module 200 and the housing 300, the control unit 12 can apply power to the heater module 200. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the heater 24 included in the heater module 200, which can heat the liquid delivery member 25. Thus, the aerosol-generating substance delivered from the chamber C0 can be atomized in or adjacent to the liquid delivery member 25, and the generated aerosol can flow towards the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0158] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the communication connection process of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to another embodiment.

[0159] Figure 7 Showing with Figures 4 to 6 The first contact terminal 215 has different shapes of first contact terminals 217.

[0160] Figure 7 The first contact terminal 217 is formed such that at least a portion is elastic, thereby allowing it to be electrically connected to the second structure by pressure from the pressure portion 110. For example, the first contact terminal 217 may include a bent region such that one end faces the Z-axis direction. This bent region may be formed of a material with predetermined elasticity, so that it can be bent by the pressure portion 110 and contact the second contact terminal 220.

[0161] Furthermore, the first contact terminal 217 can be made of Figures 4 to 6 The structure disclosed herein is formed integrally with the first contact terminal 210 and the first connecting portion 215.

[0162] As shown in the embodiments in the above figures, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a communication connection can be established between the heater module 200 and the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1 by combining the cartridge 100, the heater module 200, and the housing 300 of the aerosol generating device 1. This process ensures stable communication between the heater module 200 and the housing 300, and is designed to enable communication only when the cartridge 100 is correctly installed.

[0163] Therefore, in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 using the detachable heater module 200, information about the replaceable heater module 200 can be identified more effectively and power consumption can be minimized.

[0164] An aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing housing a heater module and a cartridge; and a control unit disposed inside the housing, wherein the heater module includes: a first structure, wherein at least a portion of the first structure is pressurized by the attachment of the cartridge to the heater module; and a second structure configured to be electrically connected to the at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge; the housing includes: a third structure configured to be connected to the control unit and to the first and second structures of the heater module, wherein if the heater module is attached to the housing and the cartridge is attached to the heater module, the heater module is electrically connected to the control unit through the third structure.

[0165] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, when only the heater module is combined with the housing, the first structure of the heater module can be electrically connected to the third structure inside the housing, and the second structure of the heater module can be electrically connected to the third structure inside the housing, while the first structure is not electrically connected to the second structure.

[0166] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, when the heater module, the cartridge, and the housing are all combined, the first structure of the heater module, the second structure of the heater module, and the third structure inside the housing can be connected in a closed circuit manner, and the heater module and the control unit are electrically connected through the first structure, the second structure, and the third structure.

[0167] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the first structure may include: a first contact terminal configured to be pressurized by the cartridge; and a first communication terminal configured to electrically connect the first structure to the third structure.

[0168] In the aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments, the control unit may be configured to apply power to the heater module from a power source inside the housing by combining the heater module, the smoke cartridge, and the housing.

[0169] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the first structure may further include: a first connecting portion configured to electrically connect the first contact terminal to the first communication terminal.

[0170] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the second structure may include: a second contact terminal configured to be electrically connected to at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge; and a first ground terminal configured to ground the second structure.

[0171] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the second structure may further include: a second connecting portion configured to electrically connect the second contact terminal to the first grounding terminal.

[0172] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the cartridge may include: a pressurizing portion protruding toward the first structure of the heater module to pressurize at least a portion of the first structure of the heater module.

[0173] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the first structure can be moved inward toward the heater module by means of the pressurization section, thereby electrically connecting it to the second structure.

[0174] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, in the first structure, at least a portion of the first structure can be formed to be elastic and pressurized by the pressurizing part, thereby electrically connecting the first structure and the second structure.

[0175] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the heater module may further include: a memory containing information related to the heater module, wherein, when a communication connection is established between the heater module and the control unit, the information related to the heater module is transmitted from the memory to the control unit.

[0176] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, when a communication connection is established between the heater module and the control unit, the control unit can apply power to the heater module.

[0177] According to some embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, the third structure may include: a second communication terminal configured to be electrically connected to a first communication terminal of the first structure if the heater module and the housing are combined with each other; and a second grounding terminal configured to be connected to a first grounding terminal of the second structure if the heater module and the housing are combined with each other.

[0178] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a heater module, which is separable from the housing of a cartridge or aerosol generating device, may include: a memory for storing information related to the heater module; a first structure for pressurizing at least a portion of the first structure by means of engagement with the cartridge; and a second structure configured to be electrically connected to the at least a portion of the first structure pressurized by the cartridge, wherein if the heater module is engaged with the housing of the cartridge and the aerosol generating device, a control unit inside the housing is electrically connected to the memory.

[0179] According to a partial embodiment of the heater module, at least one of the first structure and the second structure may include: a power terminal configured to be electrically connected to a power terminal inside the housing when the heater module is attached to the housing, regardless of the attachment between the cartridge and the heater module, wherein the heater module is configured to receive power from a power source inside the housing by means of the attachment of the heater module, the cartridge and the housing.

[0180] The embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The constituent elements or functions of the embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, can be used together or combined with each other.

[0181] For example, this means that component A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with component B illustrated in other embodiments and / or the accompanying drawings. That is, this means that even where the combination between components is not directly described, they can be combined except where it is stated that combination is impossible.

[0182] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: The housing contains the heater module and the smoke cartridge; as well as The control unit is located inside the housing. The heater module includes: A first structure, wherein if the cartridge is attached to the heater module, at least a portion of the first structure is pressurized by attachment to the cartridge; and The second structure is configured to be electrically connected to at least a portion of the first structure that is pressurized by the cartridge. The housing includes: The third structure is configured to connect to the control unit and to the first and second structures of the heater module. If the heater module is attached to the housing and the cigarette cartridge is attached to the heater module, then the heater module is electrically connected to the control unit through the third structure.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When only the heater module is connected to the housing: The first structure of the heater module is electrically connected to the third structure inside the housing. The second structure of the heater module is electrically connected to the third structure inside the housing. The first structure is not electrically connected to the second structure.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, With the heater module, the cartridge, and the housing all assembled: The first structure of the heater module, the second structure of the heater module, and the third structure inside the housing are connected in a closed circuit manner. The heater module and the control unit are electrically connected through the first structure, the second structure and the third structure.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first structure includes: The first contact terminal is configured to be pressurized by the cartridge; and The first communication terminal is configured to electrically connect the first structure to the third structure.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The first structure also includes: The first connecting portion is configured to electrically connect the first contact terminal to the first communication terminal.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The second structure includes: The second contact terminal is configured to be electrically connected to at least a portion of the first structure that is pressurized by the cartridge; and The first grounding terminal is configured to ground the second structure.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The second structure also includes: The second connection portion is configured to electrically connect the second contact terminal to the first grounding terminal.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The smoke cartridge includes: A pressurizing section protrudes toward the first structure of the heater module to pressurize at least a portion of the first structure of the heater module.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The first structure is moved inward toward the heater module by the pressurization part, thereby electrically connecting with the second structure.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, In the first structure, at least a portion of the first structure is formed to be elastic and is pressurized by the pressurizing portion, thereby electrically connecting the first structure and the second structure.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater module also includes: The memory includes information related to the heater module. When a communication connection is established between the heater module and the control unit, information related to the heater module is transmitted from the memory to the control unit.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When a communication connection is established between the heater module and the control unit, the control unit applies power to the heater module.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The third structure includes: The second communication terminal is configured to be electrically connected to the first communication terminal of the first structure when the heater module is combined with the housing; and The second grounding terminal is configured to be connected to the first grounding terminal of the second structure if the heater module and the housing are combined with each other.

14. A heater module, detachable from the housing of a smoke cartridge or aerosol generating device, comprising: A memory that stores information related to the heater module; A first structure, wherein at least a portion of the first structure is pressurized by bonding with the cartridge; as well as The second structure is configured to be electrically connected to at least a portion of the first structure that is pressurized by the cartridge. If the heater module is combined with the housing of the cigarette cartridge and the aerosol generating device, the control unit inside the housing is electrically connected to the memory.

15. The heater module according to claim 14, wherein, At least one of the first structure and the second structure includes: The power terminals are configured to be electrically connected to power terminals inside the housing when the heater module is attached to the housing, regardless of the connection between the cartridge and the heater module. The heater module is configured to receive power from a power source inside the housing by combining the heater module, the cartridge, and the housing.

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